Confident Ladley now aiming to be a Dutch Master
An 'outstanding game' saw Scunthorpe's Dave Ladley qualify for the Dutch Darts Masters European Tour event later this month.
Up against Andrew Gilding, who had beaten European champion Simon Whitlock 6-1 earlier this year, it looked like being a tough task for Ladley.
But the North Lincolnshire ace triumphed 6-5 in Dublin and now heads to the finals full of confidence.
"I played an outstanding game," said Ladley.
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"Andrew has no fear of playing anyone – his results do not lie!
"I missed the bull for a 161 checkout for a 12 dart leg and double 10 with one dart on a 140 finish for 12 darts both to break the throw and watched Andrew take his doubles out.
"I held my throw and nerve to win the decider without letting him have a shot.
"I am not sure of my average for this game but it was most definitely over the 100 mark.
"If I keep this form up I will cause upsets in the finals."
Ladley then continued his good form in Ireland over the following two days in the PDC Players Championship.
On the Saturday he made it through to the second round after beating local lad Glen Spearing 6-2, while 24 hours later he fell at the first hurdle.
"In the second round on Saturday I lost 6-1 to Mark Webster whose finishing was excellent," explained Ladley.
"He never allowed me back into the game after I allowed him to take a 3-1 lead.
"These guys know how to apply pressure and close out games. On the day he was just too good for me, another day would be another result for sure.
"On Sunday, I played Chris Aubrey in the first round and led the game 4-2 but unfortunately for me I never got a dart at the double for the remaining four legs and he won 6-4.
"I was left on 40 twice and 60 once and he checked out very well indeed.
"I had a 100 per cent checkout percentage for the game, hitting four doubles out of four attempts, so I am sure if he gave me the opportunities I would have taken them."
Ladley though, believes the future looks bright for this year and beyond.
"Altogether I was happy with the results over the weekend and can quite honestly say I did not throw a bad set of darts all weekend," he said.
"My target for qualification for the 2014 World Championships looks a very realistic target and who knows, a small run in Holland, picking up extra prize money, will put me in contention for the World Champs 2013.
"Not bad for a player who didn't win a pro tour card this year!"
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